Swollen gums can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Gum disease: Gingivitis is the most common cause of swollen gums. If plaque builds up on your gum line and teeth, over time it can become tartar (hardened plaque), which may lead to gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can turn into a more serious infection called periodontal diseases (gum disease).

• Infection: Oral infections caused by fungi and viruses can cause swollen gums. Complications from infected teeth, such as a tooth abscess, may also lead to swelling near the tooth.

• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy can cause significant changes in hormone levels. These changes may increase blood flow to the gums, making them more sensitive to swelling. Hormonal changes can also weaken the body’s ability to fight bacteria that cause gingivitis.

• Malnutrition: Being deficient in vitamins, especially vitamins B and C, can cause swollen gums.

• Poor oral hygiene: Improper brushing or flossing, tobacco use, and irritation from dental appliances such as dentures or braces can cause inflammation and swollen gums.

If you have swollen gums but you don’t have gum disease, your healthcare provider will need to find out why. They’ll likely order tests to see if you have another health condition like an infection, diabetes or vitamin deficiencies. After they find the cause, they’ll recommend the appropriate treatment. If your swollen gums are caused by a reaction to a drug, talk to your healthcare provider about changing the type of medicine you use. Never stop taking a medicine without first talking to your provider. When swollen gums last longer than two weeks, you should schedule an appointment with a dentist. Regardless of the cause, prompt treatment can prevent issues from getting worse.